Edwina Reizer

Sad Measurement

I measured my sons on a wall as they grew.Each inch was counted and charted.And as the year would pass awayTheir youthful days departed.I often wished I could erase each markAnd take them daily to play in a park.See them on swings and on a slide, Hear them laugh on the carousel ride.

I measured my sons one at a timeAnd both were happy that they grew.But I did not share their happinessBecause as a mother I knewThat their childhood days were leavingAnd never again would they knowThat the measured marks on the wallWere reminders of when they would go.

Eventually the marks were painted.No longer were they there to see.But I still can see them in my mindAnd I knew that probablyThey’d have children of their ownAnd place marks on a wall.I’m sure they’ll feel the way I didAs they see them growing tall.